HUGHESVILLE - Two high school juniors spoke to borough council Monday night about letting them spruce up the community.
Jessica Shetler and Steven Saladino, students at Hughesville High School, asked for permission to do routine projects around Bodine Park. The projects would be paid for by a grant from Pennsylvania College of Technology.
Shetler and Saladino, along with Kyle Bomboy who did not attend the meeting, are part of Leadership Lycoming. The program is designed to help its members understand the community in which they live and commit themselves to roles in the community.
A merry-go-round originally in the park has been repaired and will be painted by the students.
In addition to the merry-go-ground, Mayor Walter Reed suggested looking at the other playground equipment that might need to be repainted, such as the see-saw and swing sets.
Saladino suggested mulching areas that need it. Council intended to put in mulch and already had bought it, but will allow the students to do it.
Other projects still are to be determined.
Originally, the students wanted to build a gazebo near Ashkar Elementary School. However, they determined working in Bodine Park would be more beneficial to the community. The gazebo also might be too expensive, as the college is providing a $1,000 grant to be distributed to 15 area schools that are participating. Building the gazebo would cost about $1,000.
The students' proposal is due near the end of the month, and after grant money is distributed, work can begin. They can continue working through next summer, if needed.
Council thanked the students for their volunteer efforts.
